“When I was in elementary school, I thought the Candyman was a real thing that was happening to everyone, especially because it took place in the projects, which I lived across the street from. So I never have - and never will - say his name five times in the mirror. It's not in my nature. It just feels reckless and futile.”

American filmmaker

Nia DaCosta is an American filmmaker who emerged as a notable new voice with her feature debut, Little Woods, released in 2018. Her work first drew wider attention through that film and the recognition it received on the festival circuit. Little Woods earned a nomination for the American Independent Award for Best Feature Film at the Denver Film Festival and won the Nora Ephron Award at the Tribeca Film Festival. Her public profile is closely tied to that debut and to her work in film.